Solenopsis fugax

Name: Solenopsis fugax
Origin: Europe
Queen: approx. 4.5 – 5.5 mm
Workers: approx. 1.5 – 2.5 mm
Diet: Carbohydrates (sugar water, honey), proteins (small insects, protein sources)
Humidity:
• Arena: 30 – 50 %
• Nest: 50 – 70 %
Temperature:
• Arena: 20 – 26 °C
• Nest: 22 – 28 °C
Hibernation: Yes, approx. 3 – 4 months at 5 – 8 °C
Nest type: Plaster, Ytong, or soil nests with very fine passages are well-suited
Colony size: 500 – 3,000 workers

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Species Solenopsis fugax

Advantages:
One of the smallest European ant species – very exciting to observe due to its secretive behavior. It often lives as a sub-nester near other colonies and "robs" food. Its tiny size allows it to move through the smallest passages – ideal for keepers with a fondness for specialized species.

Disadvantages:
Very small workers make the species prone to escaping – a complete seal is required. Due to their reserved behavior, they are rarely seen openly in the arena. Furthermore, keeping them is more complex than with other native species.

Care

Solenopsis fugax prefers fine, narrow tunnel systems. Starting in a test tube is possible, but a structured nest environment (plaster, Ytong, clay with narrow passages) is ideal. The arena should be well-sealed, as the tiny workers can escape through the smallest gaps. This species tends to show nocturnal and hidden activity.

Feeding

The colony accepts very small insects or protein paste as a protein source. Carbohydrate sources like sugar water or honey should always be available. Due to their secretive lifestyle, monitoring food intake is important.

Hibernation

Solenopsis fugax requires a hibernation period of approx. 3 – 4 months. During this time, keep them at about 5 – 8 °C. Activity decreases significantly, and the colony retreats deep into the nest. Minimal feeding is only rarely necessary.